Sam Shears Sr.

Sam Shears Sr., 85, of South Haven died Monday, March 5 passed away at his home.

Sam was born September 13, 1921 in Utica, Mississippi to Henry and Nedia (Hall) Shears. Sam served his country in the U.S. Army during World War II. He married Mary Ann Hawkins on December 27, 1947. Sam moved his family to South Haven, Michigan 40 years ago. Sam retired from National Motors after 14 ½ years. Sam loved working in his garden and spending time with his family.

He is preceded in death along with his parents by one granddaughter, five brothers – Willie, Herman, Henry, George and Jim. Also by four sisters – Janie, Bert, Rosie Lee and Sadie Bell.

He is survived by his loving wife of 60 years – Mary Ann Shears. 8 sons – Sam Shears Jr. of Kalamazoo, Michigan, Sammie Shears of Kalamazoo, Michigan, Albert Shears of Adrion, Michigan, Percy Shears of Kalamazoo, Michigan, David Shears of Battle Creek, Michigan, Kenneth (Beverly) Shears, Bobby Shears, and Danal Shears all of Kalamazoo, Michigan. 2 daughters – Betty Shears and Shirley (Silas) Daniels of South Haven, Michigan.21 grandchildren, 15 grandchildren. One sister – Emmer G. Shears of Utica, Mississippi. Special friend and caregiver – Don Campbell. A host of nieces and nephews also survive.

The family would like to personally thank Borgess Hospice for all their help and care.

Wake will be Monday, March 12 from1 – 2 at the Filbrandt Family Funeral Home. Funeral services will begin at 2:00 P.M. at the funeral home with Pastor William B. Johnson officiating. Burial will take place at Stephenson Cemetery in Casco Township. Military honors will be presented by the American Legion and VFW Honor Guard. Kindly share your thoughts and memories on the family’s online guest book at www.FilbrandtFFH.com.

The family is being helped by the Filbrandt Family Funeral Home of South Haven 637-0333.